Tornado Warning Sirens—The City of St. Johns tests its tornado siren alert system at noon on the first Saturday of every month during the summer. Early warning sirens serve an important public safety purpose. Please heed the early warning sirens as inclement weather dictates. Also, re-examine your family’s emergency plan as we continue into the severe weather season. More information on proper safety measures for families can be found at www.redcross.org.
Fantasy Forest Update—City crews were on site immediately following the fire at Fantasy Forest earlier this month to remove damaged components to the play structure. The play area is now safe for use and will be quickly rebuilt once replacement parts are ordered and on site. The city will partner with the Fantasy Forest committee, which undertook the original project, in the restoration of the playground. More information will be available to citizens interested in providing donations or assisting in the reconstruction of the damaged area.
The St. Johns Police Department (989-224-6721) continues to seek information regarding the possible cause of this fire. A reward has been offered for assistance in apprehending the person(s) responsible for this suspected arson fire.
Clinton Area Abulance Service Authority Update—The City Commission at its June 22 meeting approved the new Articles of Incorporation of the ambulance authority. The new articles addressed fiscal concerns expressed by City Commissioners at previous meetings. The City is grateful to acting Chairman Bill Schmidt, new director Lynn Weber and other members of the Authority board for their dedication and commitment to providing quality emergency services to the region. Through this process the City has renewed its commitment and charter membership with the ambulance authority.
Smoke Testing—Smoke testing, discussed in an earlier City Manager newsletter, will begin on the morning of July 20 and continue through September. Homes in the testing area will be notified prior to testing through door hangers. Additional information will be provided as an insert with summer tax bill.
Non-toxic white smoke is forced into the lines using air pressure as part of this testing procedure. Homeowners should make sure all drain traps (sinks, tubs and showers) are filled with water to prevent smoke from entering households.
This smoke test procedure helps the City identify deficiencies in the Sanitary Sewer collection system such as improper roof drain, sump pump and weep drain connections. Smoke testing will also locate some breaks in sanitary sewer lines, manhole problems and broken clean-outs. The ultimate goal is to eliminate clean storm water from entering the sanitary sewer system. Diverting storm water from sanitary sewer flows is required by the State of Michigan.
City staff will be on-site during the smoke testing and will have proper picture identification. For more information regarding this procedure go to www.cityofsaintjohnsmi.com, or contact Director of Public Services Jeff Stephens at 989-224-8944, ext. 281.
Garage Sale Regulations—City residents are permitted to hold up to two garage or yard sales per year per our zoning ordinance. The length of each sale can be for up to seven days. The placement of garage sale signs is prohibited in the public rights-of way. Simply stated, this means signs must be placed on the private property.
Animal Control Ordinances—Dogs can be pleasant companions for residents out for their daily walks. Please remember city regulations require that dogs be on leashes at all times while in public places within the city. Also, solid animal wastes, whether left on public or private property, must be collected by the person walking a dog or other domestic pet within the city limits.


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